Commanders signed Matt Gay
The Washington Commanders chose not to select a kicker with one of their five picks in the 2025 NFL Draft. Adam Peters wasn't entirely convinced by the options available in undrafted free agency. Fortunately, the general manager had something else in mind.
Zane Gonzalez got a one-year deal this offseason, but his situation remained precarious after a solid if not spectacular first season in Washington. As it turned out, the former seventh-round pick didn't even get the courtesy of a training camp battle after the Commanders signed Matt Gay.
This raised a few eyebrows in more ways than one. The Commanders not only signed Gay, but they also gave him the most guaranteed money on a one-year agreement received by a kicker in NFL history. That brings raised expectations that he must meet sooner rather than later.
The Commanders are in a fine margins situation next season. They cannot afford their kicking position to become a weak link in crucial situations. Gay has proven production under his belt. He also regressed enough last time around for the Indianapolis Colts to go in a different direction.
- Grade: B-
The life of a kicker could go either way. Gay will either excel or fall flat on his face. There is likely no in between.
Commanders signed Josh Johnson
The Commanders seemed pretty set at the quarterback position. Jayden Daniels is the superstar. Marcus Mariota is the experienced backup. Sam Hartman is the development project looking to make the 53-man roster in Year 2 of his professional career.
Adam Peters had different ideas. The general manager secured the services of journeyman Josh Johnson, who fills the void left by Jeff Driskel. This is another veteran presence in the room, although nobody is expecting him to earn anything more than the No. 3 spot if the Commanders decide to take three signal-callers onto the squad once again.
This is Johnson's second spell in Washington after being part of the team during the 2018 campaign. He's never stuck anywhere, even trying his luck in the AAF and UFL before returning to the big leagues. The player also knows Peters from their time together on the San Francisco 49ers, so Hartman faces a real fight to remain relevant from the outside looking in.
The former Notre Dame star would be an ideal candidate for the practice squad again if he cannot beat out Johnson. But that would be a damning indictment of how his development is being perceived.
- Grade: C+
As for Johnson? He's getting one more shot to prolong his career. Whether he can take it remains to be seen.